We’re past the tipping point of being halfway through summer, so now is the perfect time to keep an eye on important fall term deadlines and updates while still partaking in fun activities on campus. Here’s what was heard around campus this month.
Support Local at the Gateway Garden
Looking to support local businesses and enjoy the day outside? Don’t miss this upcoming programming at the Gateway Garden (32nd and Market streets), including fun workshops, shopping and food trucks:
- Meet the Makers is a unique series of individual workshops hosted by brewers based in the Philadelphia area. This event is open to the public, but you must be 21+ to attend. The featured brewery/cidery will offer beverages for purchase at the event. The last two Meet the Makers events for the summer term will be Summertime Brews with Love City Brewing on Aug. 4 from 5–7:30 p.m., and Botany of Beer with 2SP on Aug. 18, 5–7:30 p.m.
- The U-City Art Walk is an outdoor initiative created to help build a platform for artists, businesses and creators during this difficult time. Usually hosted in Powelton Village, the U-City Art Walk shines a spotlight on up-and-coming talent and artists in Philadelphia and the tri-state area. On Aug. 12, from 3–6 p.m., artists from the U-City Art Walk will display their products to sell at the Gateway Garden on Drexel’s campus at 32nd and Market Streets.
- The Makers Market continues after a summer break on Thursdays, Aug. 12, 19 and 26, from 3–6 p.m. The Market features Philly-made art, ceramics, jewelry, skin care and more for purchase. There is no registration or fee for this event, and it is open to the public. The event on Aug. 12 has an excellent lineup to explore: MirandaBlasART, GOLD+WATER CO., S H Candles Philly, Fishtown Ferments, and Dumpster Fires For You.
- Upcoming Food Truck Schedule for the Gateway Garden:
- Aug. 4 and 18, 5–7:30 p.m. — Happy Hour Dive Cart
- Aug. 12, 19 and 26, 3–6 p.m. — J&S Juices and Smoothies
Only Four Months Left to Earn 2021 Wellness Incentive Points
Have you earned all your 2021 Wellness Incentive Program points yet? Full-time and part-time benefits-eligible faculty and professional staff enrolled in a Drexel medical plan, or full-time employees who waive medical coverage, are eligible to earn up to $400 in Drexel’s award-winning Wellness Incentive Program. Spouses and domestic partners who receive medical insurance through Drexel, or spouses and domestic partners of employees who waive medical coverage, may also participate and earn up to $250. There are only four months remaining to take full advantage of this benefit. Learn more about how to earn your points through participation in workshops, challenges and more on the Health Advocate website.
TIAA to Become Drexel’s Single Retirement Plan Record Keeper
Earlier this month, Human Resources announced that the Drexel University Retirement Investment Committee and Newport Capital Group, an independent financial consultant, recently conducted a review of the University’s retirement plan and recommended consolidating our plan administration with one record keeper, TIAA. This change is designed to provide streamlined administration, easier retirement planning, lower fees, and enhanced services and education. The change will occur in December 2021 and does not require you to take any action at this time. A detailed Transition Guide, educational sessions and one-on-one financial consulting will be provided in the fall. More details on impacts, benefits and what to expect can be found in the related announcement on HR’s website.
Check Out the DEI Media Library
The Office of Equality & Diversity (OED) has a new webpage featuring media resources and archives of past events related to diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI). Explore recordings of OED’s “A Frank Conversation” series, which aim to provide DEI education specific to different dimensions of identity and are offered in partnership with other members of the University. Two recent panel discussions, “Honoring Pride Month: A Frank Conversation About Gender and Sexuality” and “Looking Back to Move Forward: A Frank Conversation in Commemoration of Juneteenth” are now available for viewing, along with many other meaningful and educational videos.
Reminder From General Accounting
Departments who are expecting any receipts of funds (deposits): Please email General Accounting at acct11@drexel.edu with the expected receipt amount as well as FOAPAL to apply this receipt.
Jacob Bononcini Selected for CUPA-HR’s Wildfire Program
Drexel Leave and Disability Resources Consultant Jacob Bononcini is one of 13 applicants who were selected for the College and University Professional Association for Human Resources (CUPA-HR) 2021-22 Wildfire program, a 12-month leadership development experience that will help participants grow their professional skills through mentorship, events and courses. You can read more about Jacob’s acceptance to the program in June’s HR @ Your Service newsletter.